Looking for a snack that’s equal parts sweet, crunchy, and utterly irresistible? Maple-roasted pecans have you covered! These beauties are perfect for adding to salads, gifting to friends, or enjoying straight from the jar. Plus, they take less than 30 minutes to whip up. Let’s just say, they’re hard to keep around for long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need—just four ingredients, and you’re good to go!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, these pecans are perfect when you need a last-minute treat or homemade gift.
- Customizable: You can change up the spices or sweetness level to match your taste. Perfect for a little DIY flair!
Ingredients Breakdown
- Pecans: Choose fresh, whole pecan halves for the best crunch. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work too.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for that rich, caramel-like sweetness. I love grade A dark amber for its bold flavor.
- Cinnamon & Salt: Cinnamon adds warmth, while a touch of salt brings out the sweetness. You can even throw in a pinch of nutmeg if you’re feeling extra cozy!
Pro Tip: Lightly toast your pecans beforehand to bring out their natural oils and intensify that nutty flavor. It’s a small extra step but well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Coat the Pecans
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of pecans with 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated.
Step 3: Spread & Roast
Spread the pecans in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd them—this ensures they get evenly roasted and gloriously crispy. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Step 4: Cool & Enjoy!
Once the pecans are roasted to golden perfection, remove the sheet from the oven and let them cool. Don’t skip this step! They’ll crisp up even more as they cool down. Then, snack away or use them to dress up a dish.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Watch Closely: Keep an eye on your pecans during the last few minutes of roasting. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in an instant!
- Storage: Store these in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestion: Sprinkle these maple-roasted pecans on salads, oatmeal, or even ice cream for a sweet, crunchy twist!
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Maple Pecans: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
- Savory-Sweet Combo: Toss in a teaspoon of chopped rosemary or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a whole new flavor profile.
- Gifting Idea: Package these in little jars, tie them with a ribbon, and you’ve got a perfect holiday or host gift!
FAQs
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, but keep in mind that honey tends to burn more easily than maple syrup, so lower the oven temperature to 325°F and check them often.
How do I know when the pecans are done?
Look for a light golden brown color and a toasty, nutty aroma. They might still look a little sticky when you take them out, but they’ll harden as they cool!
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to spread the pecans across two baking sheets so they roast evenly. You don’t want to overcrowd them!
Printable Recipe
Maple-Roasted Pecans Recipe
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until the pecans are well-coated.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are golden and caramelized.
- Let cool completely before snacking or storing.
Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Maple-roasted pecans are one of those simple-to-make snacks that taste like pure joy in every bite. Let me know in the comments how yours turn out, or feel free to share your own flavor twists!
